Jets Linked to Trade for Former First-Round QB

Potential new QB could compete for starting role in New York

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:52am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented football game, with sharp planes of green, white, and navy blue representing the action on the field.The Jets' search for a reliable starting quarterback continues, with the team exploring a potential trade to bolster the position.NYC Today

The New York Jets have been searching for a long-term solution at quarterback for years, with recent high-profile acquisitions like Zach Wilson, Aaron Rodgers, and Justin Fields failing to pan out. Now, the team is reportedly exploring a trade for a former first-round QB who could compete for the starting job.

Why it matters

The Jets' inability to find a reliable starting quarterback has been a major source of frustration for the team and its fans. A successful trade for a talented young QB could finally provide some stability and hope at the most important position in football.

The details

Details about the potential trade target are scarce, but the Jets are likely looking for a quarterback with high upside who can challenge for the starting job and potentially develop into the team's long-term solution under center.

  • The Jets' quarterback woes have spanned several seasons, with the team unable to find a consistent starter.

The players

New York Jets

The NFL franchise based in New York that has been searching for a reliable starting quarterback for years.

Zach Wilson

The Jets' 2021 first-round draft pick who struggled mightily in his first two NFL seasons.

Aaron Rodgers

The veteran quarterback the Jets acquired in a trade from the Green Bay Packers last season, but who was unable to turn the team's fortunes around.

Justin Fields

The former first-round pick the Jets were linked to in trade rumors last season, but who ultimately remained with the Chicago Bears.

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What’s next

The Jets will need to identify and acquire the right quarterback through a trade in order to finally solve their long-standing issue at the position.

The takeaway

The Jets' continued search for a franchise quarterback highlights the difficulty of finding a reliable starter in the NFL. A successful trade for a former first-round pick could provide the team and its fans with renewed hope, but the Jets will need to make the right move to end their quarterback woes.